Rolex Day-Date 36 Yellow Gold Aftermarket Onyx Dial 1979 (Serviced)

Rolex Day-Date 18038 Onyx Dial – Yellow Gold

Rolex stands at the forefront of Swiss watchmaking, known for producing highly robust, precise, and enduring timepieces that have shaped the industry for decades. Among its most iconic creations, the Day-Date has held a special position since its debut in 1956 as the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day spelled in full. Crafted exclusively in precious metals, the model has long been associated with prestige and distinction.

The Day-Date 18038 represents a key reference within the collection, pairing Rolex’s technical reliability with refined aesthetics from the late 1970s and early 1980s. This generation introduced a quickset date mechanism, improved movement architecture, and a design language that remains deeply admired today. When fitted with a rare stone dial—such as lapis lazuli—it becomes an especially desirable variant, appreciated by collectors for its craftsmanship, visual depth, and scarcity.

Key Details To Consider

This Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 in yellow gold is presented in very attractive condition and offers a refined take on one of the brand’s most recognized models. The case shows evidence of a past polish, yet remains well defined and balanced, maintaining the strong presence expected of the reference. All case numbers and engravings are fully visible and intact, with a 6.1 million serial placing production around 1979.

The watch is fitted with a striking aftermarket onyx dial, executed to the same specifications and appearance as factory examples, giving the piece a clean and dramatic aesthetic. The movement was professionally serviced in December 2025, is running properly, and was pressure tested to 3 ATM (30 meters), ensuring reliable daily performance.

Completing the watch is a genuine vintage Rolex lizard leather strap in a 20/16mm configuration, paired with a gold-plated Rolex pin buckle. This combination complements the yellow gold case beautifully, making this Day-Date a compelling option for collectors seeking a classic reference with a bold dial presentation.

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